News

Following a nationwide recruitment by a leading executive search firm, the Capitol Police Board announces the appointment of J. Thomas Manger as Chief of the United States Capitol Police. The Board is confident in Chief Manger's experience and approach in protecting the Congress – its Members, employees, visitors and facilities.

This afternoon, nine people were arrested for demonstrating in a prohibited area on Capitol Grounds. At approximately 3:30pm, the United States Capitol Police responded to the Atrium in the Hart Senate Office Building for reports of illegal demonstration activity. After officers arrived on the scene, they warned the demonstrators three times to stop. Those who refused were arrested for D.C. Code §22-1307. Two males and seven females were transported to USCP Headquarters for processing.

The United States Capitol Police has taken down the fence around the U.S. Capitol. The outer perimeter fence, which surrounded the Capitol Complex, was removed in March. The Department greatly appreciates the community's patience and understanding during this challenging time.

"We are extremely grateful for the support we continue to receive in support of our critical mission," said Acting Chief Yogananda Pittman. "We are prepared to quickly enhance our security posture should the need arise."

It has been six months since rioters attacked the United States Capitol and our brave police officers and law enforcement partners who fought valiantly to protect elected leaders and the democratic process.

We will never forget USCP Officers Brian Sicknick and Howie Liebengood, who died after the attack, nor the sacrifices of the nearly 150 law enforcement officers who were injured.

Since that day, our team has been working with federal law enforcement agents to track down the suspects and bring them to justice. So far more than 500 defendants face charges.

The United States Capitol Police is bringing back two Department veterans as consultants to assist the Department continue on its current path to evolve post January 6.

The United States Capitol Police welcomes and is already implementing many of the recommendations detailed in the Office of Inspector General's (OIG) fourth flash report on the Containment & Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the First Responders Unit (FRU).

For example, all recommended policy updates are being completed to reflect current practices and the Department is developing a plan to ensure cross division training.

Today Acting U.S. Capitol Police Chief Yogananda Pittman and Acting Assistant Chief Sean Gallagher announced the Department is bringing on retired U.S. Secret Service Agent Wesley Schwark to help with USCP's major event planning, to include National Special Security Events.

"Mr. Schwark's 25-year law enforcement career will help us improve our now Department-wide operations planning processes," said Acting Chief Pittman. "This is yet another critical step we are taking to ensure a violent attack like January 6 never happens again."

The United States Capitol Police issued the following statement in response to the Capitol Attack Report by the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security & Government Affairs and the U.S. Senate Committee on Rules.